From the moment the Washington Wizards won the NBA Draft Lottery, the camera immediately swung to BYU star AJ Dybantsa, whose facial expression carried tremendous value for a fanbase who believed they were looking into the eyes of their franchise's newest superstar.
But here we are, weeks later, and all we've gotten from the winners of the number-one pick is uncertainty, vague question-sparking statements, and an insistence that Dybantsa isn't the only player they want with the first-overall pick. According to a recent report from Adam Finkelstein, the Wizards are far from locked in with AJ, and are still contemplating selecting Darryn Peterson, Cameron Boozer, and even trading down from their spot atop the order.
WOW: Washington hasn’t locked in AJ at No. 1 and is still in contact with Darryn’s camp (per @AdamFinkelstein).
— Bill (@Billgetzfroggy) June 3, 2026
AJ, Darryn, Boozer, and even a trade down are still in play for the Wizards 👀
If things break right… the Jazz at No. 2 could be in a perfect spot for AJ 🔥 pic.twitter.com/B54fzzwgoH
I can understand why you would consider Darryn Peterson with the number-one overall pick. As a Jazz fan myself, I think I'd prefer Utah to wind up with the Kansas guard, as he's a more natural fit on a Utah roster that has essentially taken shape at every starting position save for the shooting guard slot -- perfect for the 6'6" combo guard.
Adding to the issue further, Peterson projects as a higher-impact player when it comes to perimeter defense, and the safer pickup with such a high pick.
I'm sure it's all just posturing and an effort to keep their opponents on their toes in the weeks leading up to the NBA Draft, but let's be so serious for a moment, Washington. Are you seriously still considering trading down in the draft, or do you just like to watch us squirm?
Truthfully, what kind of strategic advantage does mystery deliver when you hold the number-one pick? Do you still believe that Utah is one impulse-buy away from overpaying for the rights to Dybantsa/Peterson? Are you waiting for Oklahoma City to offer a can't-pass-up package in the desperation to keep up with the surging San Antonio Spurs? Are you actually this indecisive?
In a draft like this, the Jazz appear happy to simply wait for the Wizards' selection and smile as they accept the remainder. There's no strategic advantage over Utah. Memphis and Chicago seem plenty content to take Cameron Boozer or Caleb Wilson, and would be over the moon if Dybantsa or Peterson somehow slipped to the three or four spot. Not really any strategic advantage in keeping your plans a secret from those franchises, either.
What's your game, Wizards, and why can't you just stay out of my news feed?
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